Life Fitness IC4 Indoor Cycle Review
High-quality components are the focus of the Life Fitness IC4 indoor cycle. Although it's not a tech-savvy bike, it's an elite riding experience.
Life Fitness IC4 Indoor Cycle Specs
| Rating | 9 |
|---|---|
| Type | Indoor Cycle |
| Console display | n/a |
| Resistance | 1-100% |
| Seat type | Adjustable padded sport saddle |
| Flywheel | Rear, aluminum, evenly-weighted |
| Weight capacity | 330 LBS |
| Dimensions | 52" L x 20.5" W x 47.2" H |
Why You Should Trust Our Reviews
If you’re looking for a top-quality indoor cycle than can support high-intensity workouts, and you aren’t that fussed about tech, you should check out the Life Fitness IC4. You may have already come across the brand’s lineup of top-spec indoor cycles. The current series includes 5 models (IC4, IC5, IC6, IC7 and IC8), with the IC4 being the entry-point machine. Don’t be fooled by the fact that it’s the entry-point model, however. The IC4 is a durable piece of kit featuring commercial-quality components that are built to last. It’s just light on the tech is all. In fact, there is no tech to speak of here: no console, display, connectivity or anything in that realm. Instead, the focus is on high-quality foundations that will support a serious cyclist’s indoor training. Of course this doesn’t mean that you cannot tune into a streamed training program and ride along; this just isn’t the focus here. The $1,699 price may seem steep considering there isn’t a touch of tech in sight, but this just isn’t what the IC4 is about. Read on for the pros and cons of the Life Fitness IC4, and see how it stacks up to the other models in the series.
The Great
- Smooth and Quiet Resistance: The Life Fitness IC4 indoor cycle features smooth and quiet magnetic resistance with lever-style adjustment. It’s a 1-100% resistance setting rather than being adjusted via specific levels. The Poly-V belt adds to the smoothness and quietness of this bike.
- Adjustability: The adjustable handlebars and seat allow you to find your perfect fit.
- Shrouded Flywheel: The rear flywheel is covered, a design feature which will be appreciated by those who have children and pets in the household.
- Versatile Pedals: The dual-sided pedals are SPD compatible as well as having toe cages. This allows you to clip in or just ride with normal sneakers, so there isn’t a barrier to entry for new cyclists.
- Storage: There are two water bottle holders within easy reach.
- High-Quality Components: From the steel frame to the aluminum flywheel, the IC4 was built to last thanks to its commercial-grade components.
- Sturdy: Thanks to the steel frame, the Life Fitness IC4 is a sturdy cycle that can hold up to 330 pounds, which will suit most trainees.
- Transport Wheels: You can easily move the Life Fitness IC4 around with the help of the transport wheels.
- Warranty: Life Fitness’s confidence in the durability of the IC4 is shown by the warranty. It offers 5 years on the structural frame, 3 on mechanical components, and a year on other parts and labor. While we have seen much longer warranties on the market, the overall quality of the IC4 means we aren’t worried about its durability.
The Not-So-Great
- Price: Considering there isn’t a touch of tech in sight, the $1,699 price is quite steep.
- No Data: Without a console, there isn’t a way for you to keep tabs on your training metrics or track your progress.
- Competition: With established brands and new companies releasing new indoor cycles all the time, the Life Fitness IC4 faces a lot of competition.
Who Should Ride The Life Fitness IC4 Indoor Cycle?
When thinking about who should ride the Life Fitness IC4 indoor cycle, it’s worth comparing the bike to the others in the ICx series; the IC4, IC5, IC6, IC7 and IC8. Structurally, the IC8 differs from the other three on account of having a chain drive instead of a belt as well as different handlebars (including drop bars). The IC4 differs from the other models when it comes to tech, however. It’s the only one without a built-in console. Having a console at your disposal will allow you to view your workout data, train interactively, and more. So if you’re stuck between models, ask yourself how much you prioritize tech and whether you would take advantage of training interactively and having a wide range of workout feedback in front of you. If so, the IC5 could be a better option for you. As it’s only about $300 more than the IC4, if you want a more tech-savvy workout but love everything else about the IC4, the IC5 could be your perfect match.
As with any of the bikes in the series, high-quality foundations are the name of the game, and this is something that seasoned cyclists will appreciate. You are paying this much for a bike without any tech for a reason; advanced trainees won’t be disappointed. Just keep in mind that this is what you’re signing up for, rather than a flashy, tech-savvy workout.
The Bottom Line
Although the Life Fitness IC4 indoor cycle is the most affordable model in the series, we would say it’s the one that really shines when it comes to at-home training. The high-quality components can handle any workout you throw at them, whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned cyclist. There isn’t a flashy screen in sight, but this is ideal for anyone who wants a no-frills bike that prioritizes quality and durability over high-tech offerings. It’s a sturdy, near-silent model that is built to last.
